The second air ambulance that provided extra cover this summer in Devon, UK, is to become a permanent fixture. The Devon Air Ambulance Trust (DAAT) said the helicopter had ‘proven its worth,’ having flown more than 220 missions in three months.

Lynn Paver, ceo of DAAT explained: “The first six months of operating a new air ambulance service from a North Devon base was always going to be a trial period, but we knew after four weeks there was a demand to be met.”

Based at Belle Vue Airfield, the Bolkow Bo105 DBS began its tour of duty in April. The Bo105 and the EC135 – the trust’s other helicopter – are called out on eight missions a day on average, predominantly to rural locations.

Said Steve Pryor, director of operations for Westcountry Ambulance Services NHS Trust, which handles the trust’s emergency calls: “I am pleased that Devon’s second air ambulance has proved to be such a success. Air ambulances are providing vital and crucial patient services. The expansion of this service will help us to ensure patients receive the best possible care in the shortest available time.”

It will also increase running costs however, which are expected to rise from £1.7m to £2.2m per year. In an effort to reduce costs, the trust has joined forces with Devon & Cornwall Constabulary and will base one of the helicopters at Force HQ in Exeter. One pilot, two paramedics and an engineer from the trust will also be based there.

The agreement will allow both parties to share the use of ground equipment and base facilities, such as hangars. Police will also lease part of the new Air Operations Unit building in order to boost funds.